On Monday, July 8, 2024, a pivotal strategic meeting took place at the Ratchaphruek Meeting Room on the 5th floor of Trat Hospital. The purpose of the meeting was to review and enhance the strategic plan for medical tourism infrastructure and health promotion in Chang Island and its surrounding areas. This initiative falls under the Thailand Wellness Economic Corridor and the Medical Innovation Zone, aiming to position Trat Province as a leading destination for health and wellness tourism.
The Thailand Charter of Health, represented by prominent figures such as Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kampon Sriwatanakul, played a crucial role in guiding the discussions. Their involvement signified a strong commitment to advancing medical and wellness tourism in Thailand. Other key representatives included Mr. Thapana Bunyaprawit, President of the Thai Urban Planning Association and Thai Charter Secretary, and Mr. Chatchai Kosawisut, President of the Thailand Wellness Association, among others.
A diverse group of participants attended the meeting, including 30 representatives from government agencies, 20 from the private sector, and 9 from the Thailand Charter. The collaboration between these sectors underscores the multifaceted approach needed to develop a successful health tourism strategy.
During the meeting, the Secretary of the Trat Provincial Health Tourism Committee presented an overview of the progress made in health and safety tourism in Trat Province from October 2023 to June 2024. The presentation also outlined a strategic plan aimed at positioning Trat as a “World-class wellness and safety destination.” This plan is part of the broader Wellness Thailand Economic Corridor and Medical Innovation Zone strategies.
The head of Mu Koh Chang National Park introduced the Green Map and a development plan designed to support commercial health tourism in Trat Province. His presentation highlighted the natural beauty and resources of the region, which are integral to the province’s health tourism appeal.
The advisory team, consisting of experts from the Thailand Charter of Health, Thailand Charter, and Thailand Wellness Association, engaged in a thorough discussion about the strategic plan. They provided valuable suggestions on various aspects, including upgrading tourism infrastructure, enhancing market positioning for Koh Chang and surrounding areas, and improving resources, environmental conditions, and transportation facilities to support medical and health promotion tourism.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing current and future projects related to health tourism. This included projects already in operation, those that have received funding, planned projects, and new proposals. The discussions aimed to ensure a comprehensive and high-quality experience for visitors, enhancing Trat Province’s reputation as a health and wellness destination.
The meeting concluded with a general Q&A session and a summary of the key points discussed. The participants expressed a strong commitment to transforming Trat into a premier destination for health and wellness tourism, leveraging its natural beauty, strategic location, and comprehensive medical and wellness services.
Additionally, the event was a collaborative effort by the Trat Provincial Public Health Office, the Provincial Tourism Industry Council, and the Wellness Association of Trat. The strategic review and action plan will be presented to the government on July 17, with significant contributions from the Thailand Charter, Thailand Charter of Health, and Thailand Wellness Association.
Article by Adisorn V. Ping
Photo by Thailand Charter